D1986 is a Road Through a Salt Field on the Coast of Namibia
Namibia, africa
21.6 km
N/A
easy
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the D1986 in Namibia, right on the edge of the Atlantic in Walvis Bay. This isn't your average road trip; it's a visual feast! This freshly paved 21.6km (13.42 miles) stretch takes you east to west from the city all the way to Paaltjies Parking Area, and it's all about the salt.
We're talking seriously cool salt lakes. You're driving right through one of Africa's biggest solar evaporation facilities, a massive 3,500-hectare area where they pull in a crazy 24 million tons of seawater every year. The result? Over 700,000 tons of top-notch salt. It's not just a road; it's a working landscape, a photographer's dream, and a totally unique travel experience.
Where is it?
D1986 is a Road Through a Salt Field on the Coast of Namibia is located in Namibia (africa). Coordinates: -22.4290, 17.8871
Road Details
- Country
- Namibia
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 21.6 km
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- -22.4290, 17.8871
Related Roads in africa
hardBainskloof Pass is a drive worth taking in SA
🇿🇦 South Africa
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits on Bainskloof Pass! This gem is tucked away in the Western Cape of South Africa, and trust me, you'll want your camera ready. We're talking next-level scenic views as you climb to 597m (1,958ft) above sea level. This isn't just any road; it's a seriously impressive piece of history, completed way back in 1854 by the self-taught engineering genius Andrew Geddes Bain. He crafted this masterpiece with convict labor and some seriously rough-and-ready methods. Originally for horse-drawn carriages, it's now a smooth paved road (R310) that was actually rebuilt in 2022. The pass stretches for about 31.2km (19.38 miles), winding from Wellington in the Cape Winelands to a bridge over the Breede River, headed towards Ceres. Get ready for some serious curves and climbs; some sections get as steep as 9%! One side’s hugging the mountainside, and the other? Well, let’s just say it’s a steep drop down to the Bainskloof River. Parts of the road get pretty narrow, and while it’s mostly in good shape, keep your eyes peeled for the odd rough patch. Word to the wise: this road's got a reputation! There are stories of accidents and even, dare I say, spooky sightings. If you're brave enough to peek over the edge, you might spot some seriously old car wrecks down below. Drive carefully, soak in the incredible views, and maybe keep an eye out for those rumored spirits! At the summit you will find a plantation and a picnic spot.
moderateWhere is Chapman's Peak Drive located?
🇿🇦 South Africa
Cruising along South Africa's Atlantic Coast? You absolutely HAVE to experience Chapman's Peak Drive! This coastal gem, affectionately called "Chappies" by locals, is located on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, stretching between Hout Bay and Noordhoek. Built into the side of Chapman's Peak mountain (you can even hike to the top!), this 9km toll road is a marvel of engineering with 114 curves carved into the near-vertical cliff face. Allow about 20-25 minutes to savor every twist and turn – trust me, you'll want to take your time! "Chappies" isn't just a drive; it's an experience. With stunning 180º views of the Atlantic, you'll be gawking the whole time. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins playing in the waves below, and maybe even spot a baboon troop curiously watching you pass. There are plenty of picnic spots and vantage points to stop and soak it all in. A word of caution: this beauty comes with a thrill! Expect sheer drops and a narrow, paved road, so take it slow (the speed limit is 40km/h) and be mindful of where you stop. Landslides can close the road sometimes too. "Chappies" is worth every bit of attention and a small toll fee. The views alone make this one of the most scenic drives on the planet.
moderateSentinel Peak
🇿🇦 South Africa
Okay, adventure awaits! Sentinel Peak, perched on the Free State/KwaZulu-Natal border in South Africa, is a seriously high parking spot at 2,545m (8,349ft). Nestled in the Drakensberg mountains, it's one of the highest roads you'll find in the country. The 12.8km road starts off paved, but don't get too comfy! You'll hit about 4.5km of seriously rough, unsealed track that's best tackled in a 4x4 – think dirt, small boulders, and rocks galore. Then there's another 2.5km paved to the parking area at the top. While the road can be a challenge, the views are totally worth it. Get ready for insane vistas of the Pudding, the Dome, and the Witches. Just take it slow, and you'll be rewarded with scenery you won't forget!
extremeWhat makes Morocco’s geography unique for drivers?
🇲🇦 Morocco
Okay, so you're thinking about hitting the N9 in Morocco, huh? Good choice! This road is a legend, the artery pumping life into the journey south toward Ouarzazate, aka "Hollywood of Morocco." Seriously, this town is where they filmed *Gladiator* and *Lawrence of Arabia*! Talk about epic scenery! The N9 carves its way right through the heart of the High Atlas Mountains, so expect some serious elevation changes. We're talking twisty alpine-like sections, so make sure your car is up for the challenge. The views? Unbelievable. Think raw, volcanic landscapes that give way to stunning desert vistas. Now, a word of caution. This isn't your average Sunday drive. You're in the mountains, so be prepared for anything. I'm talking sudden weather changes and potential hazards. But if you're prepared, this drive is an absolute must-do! It's a chance to immerse yourself in the real Morocco and experience a journey that people have been making for centuries. Get ready for an adventure!